Vancouver School Board Leases Elementary Land to Developer for $8.5M

The 99-year lease will allow Vittori Developments to build rental housing and retail space, sparking criticism over public consultation and long-term impact.

The Vancouver School Board has leased 1.6 hectares of land south of Sir Sandford Fleming Elementary School to Vittori Developments for $8.5 million.
The developer plans to construct a mixed-use building with rental housing, including some below-market units, and retail space on the ground floor.
Critics, including parents and trustees, argue the public consultation process was rushed and the decision prioritizes short-term financial gain over long-term community needs.
The lease gives priority access to vacant rental units for VSB staff, though details on how this will be implemented remain unclear.
Concerns have been raised that this sets a precedent for the sale or lease of other school properties in Vancouver, potentially reducing public access to community spaces.

CBC